However, before we begin, let’s consider what being green means in general and then apply these principals to cabinetry specifically. The three pillars of sustainable design and construction are energy efficiency, resources efficiency and air quality (both indoor and outdoor).

Energy Efficiency

With respect to energy efficiency consider a green cabinet manufacturer whose manufacturing operations are located as close to your project site as possible. This will minimize the shipping distances and energy consumed delivering the cabinets to the jobsite (as well as the carbon foot print of the delivery). Based on your location, probably the best way to secure energy efficient cabinet is to contract with a local cabinet maker who is willing to construct cabinets from resource efficient components such as those listed below.

Another important aspect of energy efficiency is the manufacturing process. Cabinet companies that have earned the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) certification from the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) have demonstrated that their production facilities strive to be energy efficient by using process by-products to generate alternative energy for the facility and by having a documented energy conservation program to minimize energy consumption. However, please note that there are many energy efficient cabinet manufacturers who do not apply for ESP certification.

particle board products such as Encore (Sierra Pine www.sierrapine.com) that do not use added urea formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

ESP certified manufacturers guarantee that at least 80% of the particleboard, medium density fiberboard, plywood and hardboard used in their cabinets meets the formaldehyde emission level of the California Air Resources Compwood ATCM and that it is third-party certified to meet low formaldehyde emission standards.

Air Quality

Lastly, the paints, stains and finishes (and glues) used in kitchen cabinet manufacturing can have a significant impact on both home air quality as well as outdoor air quality. Seek out manufacturers that control their production emissions (a requirement of the ESP certification) to ensure that the outdoor air quality is not being compromised. The use of low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) paints/stains/finishes/glues will ensure that once the cabinets are brought to the jobsite for installation that the indoor air quality of the home will not be compromised by off-gassing of VOCs.

There are currently 140 US and Canadian cabinet manufacturers that have earned the KCMA ESP certification as well as many other manufacturers that are devoted to sustainable practices that are not KCMA members. Note that some companies exclusively produce green cabinets while others offer a single line of green cabinetry.

Consider these manufacturers

The following is an abbreviated list of cabinet manufacturers to consider:

Do you have a question about greening your home? GreenHomeGuide invites you to Ask A Pro. Let our network of experienced green building professionals – architects, designers, contractors, electricians, energy experts, landscapers, tile & stone specialists, and more – help you find the right solution.